Treasures of Egypt

Tour members from across Canada gather in Toronto for the overnight flight to Cairo.

Upon arriving in Cairo this morning, we are met and transferred to our deluxe hotel, located close to the airport. Our rooms are ready for immediate occupancy. The remainder of the day is at leisure until we gather for dinner this evening.

Cairo Marriott Hotel or similar (3 nights)    

Our day starts in Islamic Cairo, visiting Saladin’s 12th-century Citadel, the City of the Dead, and the Alabaster Mosque before heading to the Coptic Quarter. Explore the Coptic Museum, Abu Serga Church, and the El Mouallaga (Hanging) Church. The rest of the day is at leisure until our evening Nile River cruise, which features dinner and live entertainment.

Sakkara, a UNESCO World Heritage site located 30 km south of Cairo, served as the burial ground for the ancient city of Memphis, now in ruins. Discover various pyramids scattered across the countryside, including the famous stepped pyramid of Djoser, the oldest known stone building, and a small sphinx. On the way back to Cairo, visit a papyrus workshop to learn about the pharaohs’ calligraphy, write your name in hieroglyphics, and receive a certificate on papyrus paper.    

Early this morning, a brief flight takes us to Luxor, the site of ancient Thebes, the pharaohs' capital from the 16th to 11th centuries B.C. Explore Egypt's most impressive ancient site, Karnak Temple, marvelling at its Hypostyle Hall, Sacred Lake, Temple of Khonsu, and Chapel of Ramesses III. We then embark on our deluxe Nile river cruise in time for lunch and relaxation on board.

ms Royal Olivia Signature or similar (7 nights)

At dawn, you can opt for a hot air balloon ride over the world’s largest open-air museum ($125 USD per person, conditions permitting, price subject to change). Later, we will explore the Valley of the Kings. Since Howard Carter opened King Tut's tomb, the burial rites of ancient Thebes have fascinated the world. Visit several tombs, including the newly opened and beautifully decorated Tomb of King Seti I. At the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, built into the towering cliff face, admire its three terraces connected by long ramps. Finally, we will see the massive twin statues of the Colossi of Memnon, representing King Amenhotep III. Relax over lunch as we sail through the Esna lock to Edfu.

Early this morning, we will take a horse-drawn carriage ride to the 2,000-year-old Ptolemaic Temple of Horus. As the second largest temple in Egypt after Karnak, this well-preserved temple from the Greco-Roman period offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the grandeur of ancient Egypt. After a brief stop in Kom Ombo, we will sail to Aswan, the traditional homeland of the Nubians. Tonight enjoy dinner and a traditional Gallabiyah party.    

This morning we fly to Abu Simbel. There, we will see the massive temples built by Ramesses II, one of Egypt's greatest pharaohs. These rock-cut temples were relocated to avoid submersion due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam. They marked the southern boundary of the Egyptian Empire at the height of the New Kingdom’s power, showcasing the strength of Egypt’s rulers. Upon returning to Aswan, we will visit the High Dam before enjoying the rest of the day at leisure to explore the modern centre of Aswan.

Board a felucca, a traditional river sailing boat, to reach Kitchener Island and visit the Botanic Gardens. This afternoon, take a short boat ride to Agilika Island to see the Temple of Philae. Finally, visit Aswan’s quarry, home to the famous Unfinished Obelisk, a 41-metre-long slab of granite.

Cruise to Elephantine Island to visit a Nubian Village and learn about the life, history, and culture of the Nubians at the Animalia Centre. At a local school, we will interact with the students and teachers, joining a fun class to learn basic words and numbers. After walking through the village, enjoy a traditional lunch in a Nubian home. Later, cruise to Kom Ombo to visit the well-preserved Roman-style Temple of Sobek, guarded by two large black granite statues of Horus. Explore the archeological museum dedicated to the crocodile-head god Sobek. The rest of the day is at leisure.   

Enjoy a cooking class onboard as we cruise the Nile. After passing through the Esna lock, enjoy the scenery as we cruise back to Luxor. Once settled, we will take a horse-drawn carriage along the Corniche to the central market. In the evening, witness a captivating sound and light show at Karnak Temple.   

Visit the stunning Luxor Temple, which dates back to around 1200 B.C., and pass through the Avenue of Sphinxes, marvelling at the phenomenal stonework. After lunch on board, we will fly back north to Cairo. Our hotel for the remainder of our time in Egypt is ideally located on the shores of the Nile.     

Cairo Marriott Hotel or similar (3 nights)

Today, we visit the only remaining wonder of the ancient world, the Pyramids of Giza. This impressive complex has fascinated travellers for centuries and puzzled archaeologists with its construction. Take in the breathtaking views of the Pyramids and enjoy an opportunity to ride a camel (approx. $15 USD). Next, explore the enigmatic Sphinx and learn about this massive lion-bodied, human-headed sculpture. After lunch, we will take a pre-opening tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), featuring highlights like the Hanging Obelisk and the statue of Pharaoh Ramesses II.

This day is dedicated to the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, home to over 120,000 relics, including the treasures of King Tutankhamun. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Al Azhar Park, located in old Cairo, with its lush gardens and panoramic city views. The park also features a section of the Ayyubid City Walls, built by Salah El Din between 1176 and 1183 AD. After lunch, we proceed to El Moez Street for a walk through old Cairo to discover the best Islamic medieval treasures, including traditional schools, mosques, and Sabil (ancient public drinking places for both people and horses). Afterwards, visit Cairo's largest market, the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, popular among tourists and Egyptians alike, offering an incredible variety of goods. Stroll through the narrow alleys and practice your bargaining skills. This evening, we will have a special farewell dinner at our hotel.  

We transfer to the airport this morning for flights back to our homes across Canada, bidding farewell to Egypt.